Since 2007, Bennion Deville Homes’ La Quinta offices, located at 47-250 and 47-350 Washington Street, have been donating their time and resources to the 4^th grade classes at Oasis Elementary School in Thermal. Continuing this annual commitment, agents and staff from Bennion Deville Homes visited the kids before Christmas to brighten their spirits and spread some holiday cheer. Many of the children at the school are underprivileged and come from families with little means, making the donations and support that much more critical and meaningful, especially during the holiday season.

This year at holiday time, the children received goody bags, which included a toothbrush and toothpaste, and presents; Barbie dolls for the girls, Hot Wheels for the boys, and small toys and soccer balls for everyone. In addition Bennion Deville Homes agents and staff handed out juice and cookies.

“The kids are so amazing and it is such a rewarding activity for everyone involved,” says Sandy Beakey, Managing Broker. “Our joy is to be able to give back and spend time with each child. They don’t ask for anything and are so grateful to receive these gifts. A few of them rewrapped their presents to give to a sibling and saved their goody bag so they can share it with their family.”

Bennion Deville Homes began working with Oasis Elementary School 4^th graders after learning that only one of the four classes was receiving support. As a result, agents and staff began visiting three 4^th grade classes and the special needs children three times a year (at the beginning of the school year, during the holidays, and at the end of the school year) with the items given to each student varying based on the season. The bond between the students and Bennion Deville Homes representatives grows strong, with the kids referring to them as their “Fairy Godmothers and Godfathers.”

To raise the money to pay for the donations given throughout the year, La Quinta agents and staff come up with creative ways to generate contributions. “We hold all kinds of auctions and drawings around the office for things like gift cards to various local restaurants, with the purchase of each ticket or auction item donated to our fund. We also have a yard sale every year and rent parking spaces, with the proceeds going toward the fund. In addition, we do a book drive for the kids, where our goal is to be able to provide at least two books to each student for summer reading,” continues Sandy. “We ask our dentists to donate toothbrushes and someone is kind enough to donate 250 tubes of toothpaste two times a year. The amount of generosity that pours in is simply amazing.”

When Bennion Deville first began working with Oasis Elementary School, it was on a dirt road with no heating or air conditioning and few resources. Now, the school is growing, including a music room for the children to enjoy. To help start the music program, Bennion Deville Homes donated a piano, violin, drumsticks, and drums. “We love coming to the school and interacting with the kids. It is a very moving experience to know that we are making such a big impact in their lives. Our partnership is special, and we look forward to continuing to visit for years to come,” Sandy concludes.

“The La Quinta offices have done a remarkable job of building something truly extraordinary with Oasis Elementary School,” adds Bob Deville, Co-Founder of Bennion Deville Homes. “We have always tried to give back and partner with members of our community, especially those who may need some extra help throughout the year. To know that through our efforts, the lives of many are bettered is a tremendous feeling and a great accomplishment that makes us proud of all involved. Bob Bennion [Bennion Deville Homes Co-Founder] and I would like to congratulate Sandy and the La Quinta offices on their successful support of the 4^th graders at the school, and encourage them to continue to be advocates for these children.”